Oceanographic Cruise Summary Second Year of Marine Biofouling Studies Off Oahu, Hawaii
Abstract
The second year of marine biofouling studies off Oahu, Hawaii, was conducted by the Naval Oceanographic Office from March 1969 to March 1970. Biofouling data were collected by exposing 75 wood/asbestos fouling panels on racks suspended 50 and 100 feet deep at two nearshore sites. Fouling was of average severity and lacked noticeable seasonality. Balanus amphitrite, Ostrea equestris, and Hydroides norvegica dominated the fouling community and consistently occurred together at both sites. The severity of fouling and the size of individual foulers were greater at 50 feet than at 100 feet. Fouling at or bottom objects within 5 to 8 months. Objects placed 100 feet deep should accumulate fouling at a somewhat slower rate. Wood was attacked rapidly by borers; most wood boards were completely riddled after 4 to 6 months' exposure. Near the entrance to Pearl Harbor, the relative abundance of gammarid amphipods and the sparsity of the coral Leptastrea purpurea indicated that these organisms are sensitive to the silt and pollution carried out of the harbor. Hawaii biofouling studies are continuing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0875298
Entities
People
- Edward R. Long
Organizations
- Naval Oceanographic Office